Hunting and Food SafetyAnyone involved with the hunting, preparation or eating of wild game should be aware of diseases that can be acquired from these animals and their meat. Become familiar with food safety procedures that can help prevent infection at all stages of preparation, from field dressing to cooking and storage.

Brain AbscessBrain abscesses are infected areas of the head, which can be cause abnormal antler growth. They are usually found near the antler pedicle of male white-tailed deer as a result of conflicts with other males.

Epizootic Hemorrhagic DiseaseHemorrhagic disease is a suite of viruses that occur annually in white-tailed deer populations and can lead to internal hemorrhage, emaciation, hoof sloughing, lameness, and oral ulcers.

Cutaneous FibromaCutaneous fibromas are wart-like, hairless blemishes found on white-tailed deer caused by a virus.

Arterial Worm/Food ImpactionFood impactions in white-tailed deer can be caused by arterial worms that cause facial paralysis and allow food to accumulate in the jaw area.

Nasal Bots Nasal bots are larval bot flies found in the nasal passages of white-tailed deer.

FWC Facts:Gopher frogs will travel great distances, up to a mile or more, to breed in temporary ponds year-round, laying eggs in shallow water.